Former Kaduna State Governor, Nasir El-Rufai, has filed a ₦1 billion lawsuit against the Independent Corrupt Practices and Other Related Offences Commission (ICPC), challenging the legality of a search conducted at his Abuja residence. The suit, lodged before the Federal High Court in Abuja, seeks a declaration that the search warrant used by the anti-corruption […]
Former Kaduna State Governor, Nasir El-Rufai, has filed a ₦1 billion lawsuit against the Independent Corrupt Practices and Other Related Offences Commission (ICPC), challenging the legality of a search conducted at his Abuja residence.
The suit, lodged before the Federal High Court in Abuja, seeks a declaration that the search warrant used by the anti-corruption agency was invalid, unconstitutional, and improperly executed. El-Rufai is asking the court to nullify the warrant and restrain the commission from relying on any materials allegedly recovered during the operation.
In court filings, the former governor contends that the warrant lacked specificity and failed to disclose sufficient probable cause. He argues that it amounted to a “fishing expedition” rather than a lawful investigative procedure backed by credible evidence.
El-Rufai further claims that the manner in which the search was carried out violated his constitutional rights to privacy, dignity, and protection of property. According to him, operatives stormed the premises in a manner that created unnecessary alarm and reputational damage.
His legal team is also seeking an order compelling the ICPC to return any documents, electronic devices, or personal items seized during the search. Additionally, he is demanding ₦1 billion in general and exemplary damages for what he describes as unlawful intrusion and emotional distress.
Legal observers say the case may test procedural safeguards governing search warrants under the Administration of Criminal Justice Act (ACJA). Central to the dispute is whether the issuing magistrate was presented with sufficient material facts before granting the warrant.
As of the time of filing this report, the ICPC had not issued an official response to the suit. However, sources within the commission maintain that all investigative steps taken were within the ambit of the law.
The case is expected to attract significant public and legal scrutiny, given El-Rufai’s political stature and previous outspoken positions on governance and anti-corruption enforcement.